Our prayers go out to the great singer Reba McEntire and her family…

Today, the remarkable Reba McEntire celebrates her 68th birthday, and she undoubtedly merits all the accolades she receives. Personally, it seems as though she has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and I continue to enjoy her music several times each week.

However, Reba’s journey has not been without its challenges. This year marks the 32nd anniversary of a tragic plane accident that took the lives of several of her close friends.

After achieving prominence in the country music scene during the late 1970s and early 1980s, Reba McEntire was honored as the “best singer” by the Country Music Association for four consecutive years. Additionally, she proudly holds a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Despite her illustrious career and numerous accomplishments, Reba has faced significant personal hardships. In 2022, she experienced the loss of her mother, Jacqueline, who passed away at the age of 93 after a courageous battle with cancer.

“She lived a wonderful, fulfilling life and was completely prepared to depart. While cancer may have thought it triumphed, we attribute her passing to God’s timing for her return home,” the country star shared on social media. Jacqueline McEntire had always aspired to be a professional country singer and was instrumental in teaching Reba the art of singing, thus fulfilling her own dreams through her daughter.

“She departed knowing how deeply she was loved, and we all recognize the extent of her love for us. We will miss her dearly, but we are left with countless cherished memories,” Reba expressed.

Reba is no stranger to grief and loss. On March 16, 1991, she tragically lost seven members of her band and her tour manager in a plane crash following a concert.

I vividly recall that day in 1991. As I was driving to work, I heard the news of the crash on the radio, and my heart raced at the thought that Reba might have been on board.

Fortunately, she was not. Reba and her band had performed in San Diego on March 16, 1991, and were en route to Fort Wayne, Indiana, for their next concert on the tour.
Two aircraft were stationed at the San Diego airport, with the band members and their tour manager having departed earlier, while Reba, along with her husband and manager, opted to stay overnight in the city.

Tragically, the first plane encountered a catastrophic incident just ten miles east of the airport. Over the years, Reba has frequently honored the memory of her departed friends.

In a poignant interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2012, she recounted the day her band lost their lives. “The tip of the wing of the airplane struck a rock on the side of Otay Mountain, resulting in the death of everyone on board,” McEntire shared with Winfrey.

“When we received the news, Narvel (Reba’s manager) went to meet with our pilot, who informed us of the situation. Narvel returned to the hotel room where I was — it was around two or three in the morning — and he said that one of the planes had crashed. I asked, ‘Are they OK?’ He replied, ‘I don’t think so.’ I pressed, ‘But you’re not certain?’ He reiterated, ‘I don’t think so.’”

With tears welling in her eyes, Reba reflected on the tragic event.

“Narvel was going from room to room with a phone, making calls…” she began, pausing as emotion overtook her. “I apologize — it has been 20 years, but it feels as if the pain never truly fades,” she expressed. “Yet, I can vividly recall that room. I can see Narvel pacing back and forth.”

Now, 32 years have elapsed since the crash. Recently, she shared a photograph of her band on Instagram, commemorating the tragic events of that day.

In 2020, she offered another tribute to her friends.

“29 years ago today, I lost my friends in a plane crash. The timing of Mama’s passing alongside that anniversary feels significant,” she noted.

“I believe they are all together in Heaven, looking after one another. Let us continue to find ways to care for each other here on earth and cherish every moment with our loved ones.”
Reba’s supporters promptly rallied to express their encouragement for the country music icon. Numerous individuals conveyed their positive sentiments and prayers.

“Reba, I have always cherished your music, our mutual equestrian background, and now I enjoy following you on Instagram. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your mother,” one admirer commented.

In 2023, Reba once again showcased her unwavering loyalty to her friends, continuing to grieve their untimely passing.

“Their passion for music and performance inspires us all to persevere,” she stated, accompanying her words with a video of the ensemble performing together.

My heartfelt condolences, Reba. Remain resilient, you remarkable woman. There is a purpose for your presence on this earth, as you bring joy to countless individuals. Keep smiling!